Showing results by publisher "Phoenix Books" in Shakespeare

For sustained dramatic intrigue and sophistication of plot, William Shakespeare's sonnets are at least the equal of his greatest plays. Throughout the centuries since their first publication in 1609, critics, psychologists and curiosity-seekers alike have pondered the nature of the poet's relationships with the mysterious young man, "Mr. W.H.", and the "ill-coloured" Dark lady.

There is no general consensus about how Shakespeare "should" be played. There are no rules. But, while the Bard created superhuman characters and placed them in situations that stretches the imagination to its limits, he also provided his actors with the keys to playing them.

In these two unabridged lectures, Elizabeth McNamer gives scholarly glimpses into the most compelling moments of two of Shakespeare’s classic plays: Hamlet and Macbeth. Hamlet, because he is given much to philosophizing, fails to act. And this sweet procrastination becomes the downfall of the sweet prince of Denmark. Macbeth, who has murdered his way to the crown, finds there only a murderer’s reward.

Ever miss a prime opportunity for a snappy comeback or a perfect putdown? We all have, kicking ourselves later when we think of what we could have said. The well-aimed insult was never in better shape than when Shakespeare mastered the art of defining dramatic conflict with rapier wit rather than swordplay.